The Noticer: Sometimes, All a Person Needs Is a Little Perspective

A new story of common wisdom from the bestselling author of The Traveler’s Gift.

Orange Beach, Alabama is a simple town filled with simple people. But like all humans on the planet, the good folks of Orange Beach have their share of problems – marriages teetering on the brink of divorce, young adults giving up on life, business people on the verge of bankruptcy, as well as

A new story of common wisdom from the bestselling author of The Traveler’s Gift.

Orange Beach, Alabama is a simple town filled with simple people. But like all humans on the planet, the good folks of Orange Beach have their share of problems – marriages teetering on the brink of divorce, young adults giving up on life, business people on the verge of bankruptcy, as well as the many other obstacles that life seems to dish out to the masses.

Fortunately, when things look the darkest – a mysterious man named Jones has a miraculous way of showing up. An elderly man with white hair, of indiscriminate age and race, wearing blue jeans, a white T-shirt and leather flip flops carrying a battered old suitcase, Jones is a unique soul. Communicating what he calls “a little perspective,” Jones explains that he has been given a gift of noticing things that others miss. “Your time on this earth is a gift to be used wisely,” he says. “Don’t squander your words or your thoughts. Consider even the simplest action you take, for your lives matter beyond measure…and they matter forever.”

Jones speaks to that part in everyone that is yearning to understand why things happen and what we can do about it.

Like The Traveler’s Gift, The Noticer is a unique narrative is a blend of fiction, allegory, and inspiration. Gifted storyteller Andy Andrews helps us see how becoming a “noticer” just might change a person’s life forever.

Community Reviews

“The Noticer” by Andy Andrews, is a pleasant surprise of a read. The book illustrates a short story with a powerful punch; a story that I don’t want to spoil for any readers of this review. I’ll tell you this though, my husband and I participate in a highway clean up project sponsored by our township and when we first started he insisted that we pick up cans on the same side of the street and then pick up cans on the other side during the walk back, otherwise there would not be any cans for us t“The Noticer” by Andy Andrews, is a pleasant surprise of a read. The book illustrates a short story with a powerful punch; a story that I don’t want to spoil for any readers of this review. I’ll tell you this though, my husband and I participate in a highway clean up project sponsored by our township and when we first started he insisted that we pick up cans on the same side of the street and then pick up cans on the other side during the walk back, otherwise there would not be any cans for us to pick up during our walk back to where we started. I told him it wouldn’t matter if I picked up cans going the same direction as he yet on the other side of the road, for there would still be cans for us to pick up on the way back, because we would be viewing the roadside from a different perspective. “The Noticer” is about viewing our everyday lives from a different perspective and what a change in perspective can do to one’s world. Excellent read and one I am happy to recommend to everyone, no matter your perspective on life!...more

I'm going to go against popular opinion and state that this wasn't a very good book. Sure, there were a few good life lessons included in its pages. However, the writing was mediocre and the story telling was terrible. The characters were unbelievable, both in dialogue and action. I was surprised that the characters didn't punch Jones for delivering these messages that go against the grain of their lives. While the messages were good ones, it was unbelievable that people would accept these messaI'm going to go against popular opinion and state that this wasn't a very good book. Sure, there were a few good life lessons included in its pages. However, the writing was mediocre and the story telling was terrible. The characters were unbelievable, both in dialogue and action. I was surprised that the characters didn't punch Jones for delivering these messages that go against the grain of their lives. While the messages were good ones, it was unbelievable that people would accept these messages right off the bat. No real contemplation, no real struggles, just quick acceptance of an old man's "noticing."

Also, I have to disagree with a couple of the lessons. Jones states that if you want people to like you, think about what it is that they would change about you. Some of the things I agree with, like reducing or eliminating cursing in your speech when talking to others or being more polite. But other things I can't agree with, like changing how you dress so that other people will like you more. Change how I dress so people like me? I think not. Some of this is individuality, not something that should be changed so that you can win a popularity contest.

Overall, I felt preached at. The story wasn't very good and the lessons were driven home very forcefully. Not my cup of tea....more

This is the first book I have read by author Andy Andrews and it will NOT be the last! I picked up this book free through Thomas Nelson's Book Review Blogger Club (well I actually downloaded it onto my Sony e-Book Reader). I was kind of hesitant to read it as I had not read anything by Andy Andrews, but once I picked it up I could not put it down. Andy is a great author and this book was an easy read. It was a shorter book (only 176 pages) but had a lot of good content and some great life lessonThis is the first book I have read by author Andy Andrews and it will NOT be the last! I picked up this book free through Thomas Nelson's Book Review Blogger Club (well I actually downloaded it onto my Sony e-Book Reader). I was kind of hesitant to read it as I had not read anything by Andy Andrews, but once I picked it up I could not put it down. Andy is a great author and this book was an easy read. It was a shorter book (only 176 pages) but had a lot of good content and some great life lessons. I am still not sure if the story was a true story or not, but in the book Andy was the narrator and he is telling the story of Jones. At the beginning Andy is a homeless twenty-something with a bad look on life and not much going for him. Jones (an older homeless man) befriends him and has him start reading books about great people in history and teaches him how to be better liked (so people will enjoy being around him). After Andy's 180 attitude change things start looking up for him and Jones just disappears. About a decade later Jones is back in the picture and is helping others with their everyday problems (one couple is on the verge of divorce...another man is depressed and on the verge of suicide...another man is in financial ruin). The book goes on to tell the stories of these individuals and what impact Jones has made on their "perspective."...more

This book is yet another example of how my life is constantly interrupted by the subtle whispers of someone wiser… i’ve mentioned before that the media that i engage in often speaks directly into the situations that surround my life and The Noticer proves this once again… of course, in this particular instance, the book speaks directly to a much larger audience than just me…

we are currently living in what i call a “chicken little era”… everywhere i turn, i’m faced with one more thing that shouldThis book is yet another example of how my life is constantly interrupted by the subtle whispers of someone wiser… i’ve mentioned before that the media that i engage in often speaks directly into the situations that surround my life and The Noticer proves this once again… of course, in this particular instance, the book speaks directly to a much larger audience than just me…

we are currently living in what i call a “chicken little era”… everywhere i turn, i’m faced with one more thing that should cause me concern… one more thing that i can easily invest my time worrying about… one more person claiming that the very foundations of the world have been shaken to their very core… the sky is indeed falling for many of us in the world today…

enter Jones… or Garcia… or Chen… the old man and prominent character of Andy Andrews latest book offers what we all need right now more than just about anything else… perspective… The Noticer shares the journey of this angelic man and all the lives he manages to touch – and change – by simply listening and offering guidance… much of the advice that he offers is relevant to the circumstances many find themselves in currently…

i’m highly recommending this book simply for the nuggets of wisdom that can be found throughout the narrative, but it really helps that it’s engrossing as well as an extremely quick read…

I really enjoyed this little 156-page book. Judging from the title, I first thought the book would be about "people-watchers" -- you know, those folks who like to sit in the mall and study people as they walk by. After the first page or so, I realized that the central character, "Jones" -- "not Mr. Jones, just Jones" -- is The Noticer. Jones has a knack for being at the right place at the right time and say the right things to those who need help the most. Jones would notice things, point out hiI really enjoyed this little 156-page book. Judging from the title, I first thought the book would be about "people-watchers" -- you know, those folks who like to sit in the mall and study people as they walk by. After the first page or so, I realized that the central character, "Jones" -- "not Mr. Jones, just Jones" -- is The Noticer. Jones has a knack for being at the right place at the right time and say the right things to those who need help the most. Jones would notice things, point out his wise observations to offer others a different perspective. For instance, Jones was sharing lunch with a friend. He asked the guy to describe his meal and the guy said he was sitting in the sand at the beach eating canned sausages and sardines. Jones, on the other hand, had "surf and turf with an ocean view" -- it's all about perspective. That's all I will say about the storyline so as not to spoil it for everyone. This book has discussion questions at the end, and the author must have known that this would be a book for discussion groups. ...more

Suzanne MooreThis sounds like an interesting book that I'd like to read. Maybe East Texas Library Friends would like it for group discussion.
Aug 22, 2009 09:08PM

TerryIt is a beautiful book. There some I tend not to finish as I want the book to last longer. so daily I read a page or two. I just don't want to come toIt is a beautiful book. There some I tend not to finish as I want the book to last longer. so daily I read a page or two. I just don't want to come to end (of the book)....more
Nov 04, 2012 10:03PM

Way too self-help for me and the writing was nothing special, but there were some definite gems within the book that I think back to sometimes. This is the primary one (so now you can move onto another book without hesitation.. sorry Andy Andrews). I'm going to just paraphrase the concept:

In the same way that Americans and Scots both speak English but may as well be speaking different languages, there are different dialects to the language of love. People sometimes come across difficulties in thWay too self-help for me and the writing was nothing special, but there were some definite gems within the book that I think back to sometimes. This is the primary one (so now you can move onto another book without hesitation.. sorry Andy Andrews). I'm going to just paraphrase the concept:

In the same way that Americans and Scots both speak English but may as well be speaking different languages, there are different dialects to the language of love. People sometimes come across difficulties in their relationships because they give and receive love in a different dialect from the other person. Each dialect is represented by an animal.

Dog - Verbal communication. "Good dog/bad dog."Cat - Physical touch.Goldfish - Deeds and gestures. Goldfish don't need to be told they're loved, they just want you to feed them, clean the tank, maybe fix up the fake plants. This person can be told a million times that they're loved but it doesn't get through to them until they're shown it - a gift, cooking dinner, acts of selflessness/willingness to help. That's also how they show their love to others and may never say overtly how much they careCanary - Quality time. The canary displays its love through its song and presence, and in return it just wants to be heard and appreciated. This person cares about the amount of time spent together... just hearing that they're loved or having physical touch is not enough. They need to feel like they're doing things together, sit down and have meals together, etc.

Okay, some will like this book much better than I. Some will love it, be moved and inspired by it.

I'm not and never have been a fan of certain types of self-help books (who knows maybe I'd be rich and so on if I'd listened better....LOL, oh well). Mr. Andrews has written several books and based much of his writing on his 7 decisions.

After his parents died he did (as in the book) spend some time homeless. This book purports to tell the story of how he came out of this life and came to his sevenOkay, some will like this book much better than I. Some will love it, be moved and inspired by it.

I'm not and never have been a fan of certain types of self-help books (who knows maybe I'd be rich and so on if I'd listened better....LOL, oh well). Mr. Andrews has written several books and based much of his writing on his 7 decisions.

After his parents died he did (as in the book) spend some time homeless. This book purports to tell the story of how he came out of this life and came to his seven decisions, with the help of an old man who's been around a very long time and always seemed old. Other people know him by other names and when they see him they see another appearance than the writer.

Mr. Andrews has been a comedian and now writes self-help books and is an inspirational speaker. I won't go into what I find annoying about the "buck-up, be inspired, you can accomplish it if you just decide to" school of writing/speaking but I'm just not that moved by it.

If this works for you, great. Go forth and conquer. I doubt I'll read much more by Mr. Andrews. Not saying I have a problem or it isn't helpful, just not something I care for. ...more

The Noticer by Andy Andrews is 156 pages of important life lessons wrapped within a feel-good, inspirational novelette. The lessons are thinly-veiled homilies spoken by the main character Jones to a cast of (unfortunately) flat, characters who barely resemble real people with real dialogue. Still, the book’s lessons and overall message are positive, and Christian — without mentioning God too often. The book will appeal to mothers, grandmothers, fans of inspirational literature, and anyone who enThe Noticer by Andy Andrews is 156 pages of important life lessons wrapped within a feel-good, inspirational novelette. The lessons are thinly-veiled homilies spoken by the main character Jones to a cast of (unfortunately) flat, characters who barely resemble real people with real dialogue. Still, the book’s lessons and overall message are positive, and Christian — without mentioning God too often. The book will appeal to mothers, grandmothers, fans of inspirational literature, and anyone who enjoys Hallmark greeting cards.

The barebones story is about an elderly, white-haired man named Jones who appears in a small town over the course of many years, always helping people gain a broader perspective on their trials and their blessings. For example: A man is saved from worry when Jones reminds him to focus only on what can be controlled. An old woman with nothing left to live for is inspired to begin living purposefully after Jones tells her that everything one does has an impact on someone else’s life.

I have nothing against this type of inspirational material, mind you. My basic problem with The Noticer is that it would’ve been better off as non-fiction prose rather than as a pseudo novel. After all, the characters are throwaway paper cutouts. The real meat here lies in the life lessons — the wise nuggets scattered throughout the novel’s cliche-soaked melodrama and often cringe-worthy dialogue. Still, it’s worth a quick read on the plane, and would make an excellent Mother’s Day gift!

I loved Andy Andrews's The Traveler's Gift. I had no idea what was around the corner, and I know I am not reading page-turner fiction here but still, I wanted this book to have that quality so I can stay with it. I love Andrews's style of telling stories and making a great point or two across. Jones is a good strong character and I like the concept of PERSPECTIVE - yes, everything is indeed about perspective, no doubt about it - and theGood story, makes great points but gets a bit too redundant.

I loved Andy Andrews's The Traveler's Gift. I had no idea what was around the corner, and I know I am not reading page-turner fiction here but still, I wanted this book to have that quality so I can stay with it. I love Andrews's style of telling stories and making a great point or two across. Jones is a good strong character and I like the concept of PERSPECTIVE - yes, everything is indeed about perspective, no doubt about it - and the author does a fantastic job of bringing this point to the surface the first 30-40 pages.

But then I wanted to know what's next. He goes on and on to give us different scenarios and each are unique so the shift in perspective that Jones, this character the author uses throughout, offers would be unique. I just lost interest half way through and had to force myself to read a few more pages.

A 3 star for the creativity, the message of courage and hope and shifts in perspective, but not the page turner compelling read that I had hoped it would be. If you are struggling with the "why me, why me" question in your life or are in a rough patch, I think this is a great read and do recommend it....more

Do you need a fresh look at things? Have the issues in your life become mundane? Then take a journey into the book ‘The Noticer: Sometimes All You Need is a Little Perspective“ by Andy Andrews.

In this book, you travel through the lives of ordinary people who encounter a man named ‘Jones’. An unassuming character, but only at first. Once he engages you in conversation, you will never look at things in the same way again.

Very similar to the character “Baggar Vance” in the film “The Legend of BaggaDo you need a fresh look at things? Have the issues in your life become mundane? Then take a journey into the book ‘The Noticer: Sometimes All You Need is a Little Perspective“ by Andy Andrews.

In this book, you travel through the lives of ordinary people who encounter a man named ‘Jones’. An unassuming character, but only at first. Once he engages you in conversation, you will never look at things in the same way again.

Very similar to the character “Baggar Vance” in the film “The Legend of Baggar Vance”, Jones enters the lives of several people from many different walks of life, some he approaches respectfully and some in a much more forceful way. His demeanor soon dispels the initial objection of his intended ‘new best friend’.

During these conversations, many popular, modern day ideas are dispelled. Ideas such as ‘experience being the best teacher’ and ‘don’t sweat the small stuff’ which have become household sayings are challenged and scrutinized by Jones’ perspective as he engages you in the conversation.

I must say that while I read (and re-read) this story, I often looked up and around me quietly expecting Jones to appear in my life.

In these conversations, Jones addresses life issues such as the despair of a young orphaned man, the hopelessness of a couple on the verge of divorce, a man contemplating suicide, and the tender thoughts of an older woman withdrawn from a world she believes no longer needs her.

I found wisdom in each of Jones’ dialogues with these characters. My personal favorite new ‘perspective’ was ‘the difference between a mistake and a choice’ and the illumination of the most common ‘love languages’.

I highly recommend this book to anyone who seeks authenticity. You will find life lessons that you may have already learned, lessons you may need to re-learn, and still more lessons you may need to be introduced to for the very first time.

A movement has begun from the publication of this book. It is called “The Noticer Project“. Visit the site today and take a moment to notice those in your life that make a difference....more

From a distance you may think that Jones is a homeless man, alone with no family, and only a small suitcase of belongings. Move closer and Jones would tell you he’s a man with a wealth of places to stay, friends who love him like family, and possessions meant to be shared. Jones would say you might need to change your perspective.

Andy Andrews introduces us to Jones in his latest book, The Noticer. Andy is living under a pier and has no job, v DO YOU SEE WHAT I SEE?

BOOK REVIEW BY JO RAE JOHNSON

From a distance you may think that Jones is a homeless man, alone with no family, and only a small suitcase of belongings. Move closer and Jones would tell you he’s a man with a wealth of places to stay, friends who love him like family, and possessions meant to be shared. Jones would say you might need to change your perspective.

Andy Andrews introduces us to Jones in his latest book, The Noticer. Andy is living under a pier and has no job, vehicle or family. Surprisingly, Jones doesn’t offer Andy quick solutions to his circumstances. He helps him find something far more valuable—hope. Andy’s first assignment is an unusual one, read three biographies. Jones explains to Andy, “Other people’s experience is the best teacher. By reading about the lives of great people, you can unlock the secrets to what made them great.”

Andy is the first of many people Jones will touch. A couple filing for divorce is taught the dialects of love. A depressed, divorced man learns “that a person could lose everything, chasing nothing.” A group of teenagers are taught to read life “leaves” to gain the vision necessary to pick a life partner. Jones meets a plethora of people at every age and circumstance in need of a change of attitude.

Willow, an older, widowed woman who believes her life is over will learn through Jones “the most important part of your life has not yet been lived.” A young, entrepreneur who sees dollar signs in lieu of people is instructed, “Life is like a game of Monopoly. You may own hotels on Boardwalk or you may be renting on Baltic Avenue. But in the end, it all goes back in the box.”

Have you ever met someone like Jones? Are you a Jones to others? This book opens the door to such questions and many others. How important are the circumstances in your life or is your perspective your greatest obstacle?

I once saw a toddler discover his hand. He moved his palm close to his face, eyes wide, and mouth open, intent on his flexing fingers. As I watched him, I felt envious of his ability to find delight in something I rarely notice. This book reminded me of that child and encourages me to look for new perspectives on everyday situations.

Remember the song, “Be careful little eyes what you see?” Today, with the doom and gloom of the news media, I find myself needing vision correction in order to keep a positive focus. While reading this book, I realized Jones had a message for me too. “Whatever you focus upon, increases.” I’m putting on my rose colored glasses; it’s going to be a beautiful day and good things are coming my way!...more

I picked up this book thinking it was going to be a bit about slowing down and 'noticing' things to improve my personal perspective on things. By the middle of the book, my perspective on "The Noticer" was dim. In the last chapter, I was throwing the book across the room, scrunching my hair thinking "I could've done this." It was a more than disappointing read.

Andy Andrews has an inviting writing style, more like listening to an old friend (albeit sometimes a know it all, annoying friend), but II picked up this book thinking it was going to be a bit about slowing down and 'noticing' things to improve my personal perspective on things. By the middle of the book, my perspective on "The Noticer" was dim. In the last chapter, I was throwing the book across the room, scrunching my hair thinking "I could've done this." It was a more than disappointing read.

Andy Andrews has an inviting writing style, more like listening to an old friend (albeit sometimes a know it all, annoying friend), but I found the other elements of the novel dismal. The characters were not believable to me. I wondered if any of them had a backbone to just stand up to someone invading their personal lives with unsolicited tidbits of advice. Half way through the book, I could tell what was going to happen, so when it did end up in this super tidy ending that is not realistic, I thought I would drowned in the cheesy oooziness of it all.

In real life, there are no nice tidy endings where everyone wins. Even wise, old sages recognize that and they don't sugar coat it. Not to say that miracles don't happen, but when it came down to perspective, I didn't think this book offered much. ...more

I have just finished The Noticer: Sometimes, all a person needs is a little perspective. When I began this book, it reminded me of The Five People You Meet in Heaven in that it's a series of chapters, each about meeting a different person.

An old guy ("Jones") shows up around town, meeting people at pivotal periods and giving them just the advice they need to turn their life around. One of Jones's favorite sayings is "You lack perspective," and he does have a knack of saying the right thing at thI have just finished The Noticer: Sometimes, all a person needs is a little perspective. When I began this book, it reminded me of The Five People You Meet in Heaven in that it's a series of chapters, each about meeting a different person.

An old guy ("Jones") shows up around town, meeting people at pivotal periods and giving them just the advice they need to turn their life around. One of Jones's favorite sayings is "You lack perspective," and he does have a knack of saying the right thing at the right time to people.

Honestly, at first the book struck me as a bit gimmicky. If you've read Gary Chapman's Five Love Languages, that's the gist of the advice he gives one character. Another character seems to get the message from The Secret (although I haven't read that book, I've read reviews of it) that "what you focus on increases."

Other situations in the book seemed copied from positive-thinking-forwarded-emails (at least some I've gotten): a man asked to be buried with a fork because "the best is yet to come" (ie, dessert).

I began trying to identify which book or feel-good concept would show up in each chapter, but thankfully the copy-catting didn't permeate the entire book.

I can't join the book jacket praise that this is "the best book I ever read!", but if you're looking for a positive pick-me-up, try out this one. You will probably gain a little "perspective," to quote Jones....more

The story takes place in Orange Beach, Alabama. Jones is a mysterious old man who appears and disappears through the years giving the townspeople some sage advice. Jones has a miraculous way of communicating what he calls “a little perspective,” Jones explains that he has been given a gift of noticing things that others miss. He sheds light on the issues that most people face one time or another in their lives. Divorce, getting old, taking shortcuts and redefining your life. "Jones," helped theThe story takes place in Orange Beach, Alabama. Jones is a mysterious old man who appears and disappears through the years giving the townspeople some sage advice. Jones has a miraculous way of communicating what he calls “a little perspective,” Jones explains that he has been given a gift of noticing things that others miss. He sheds light on the issues that most people face one time or another in their lives. Divorce, getting old, taking shortcuts and redefining your life. "Jones," helped the people in the town get a better 'perspective'. It is kinda like The Five People You Meet in Heaven. My favorite parable in the book is about the seagull and change. Five seagulls are sitting on the pier, one decides to fly off. How many seagulls are left? The seagull doesn't change until he actually flies off! “Most people think it takes a long time to change. It doesn’t. Change is immediate! Instantaneous! It may take a long time to decide to change…but change happens in a heartbeat!” This would be a great gift....more

What a great little book this was to read. Only 160 pages in length, so it was very quick, but it is packed full of good advice. Advice on how and why to change your "perspective."

The stories ranged from a young homeless man (the author), to a couple on the brink of divorce, to an elderly lady who feels her usefulness has passed. After they all encounter a mysterious old man named Jones, their lives change. All because he allows them to see their lives and their futures with a different perspectWhat a great little book this was to read. Only 160 pages in length, so it was very quick, but it is packed full of good advice. Advice on how and why to change your "perspective."

The stories ranged from a young homeless man (the author), to a couple on the brink of divorce, to an elderly lady who feels her usefulness has passed. After they all encounter a mysterious old man named Jones, their lives change. All because he allows them to see their lives and their futures with a different perspective. Just by asking them very simple questions, and leading them to see their problems from a logical perspective, they can begin to understand how to change those things they think are problems or obstacles.

For several minutes, we both sat silently, watching the gulls soaroverhead, listening to the surf break on the beach. Then Jones began to gather the empty cans and place them in the plastic bag. Standing, he extended his hand and helped me to my feet. "Incidentally," he said with a smirk, "you ate sardines and Vienna sausages in the sand. I dined on surf and turf with an ocean view." He slapped me on the back. "It's all about the perspective." (p 15-16)

One chapter touches on the principles of the Five Love Languages - illustrating 4 of those languages as animals.

Spoken Words of Approval as being a puppy dog. You respond and need this verbal affirmation.Favors and Deeds like a goldfish. You don't care if the other person is around, can't hear them - but you depend on them to feed you and clean your bowl.Physical Contact like a cat - You like to be touched, petted, scratched - just like a cat shows their love to you by rubbing against you.Quality Time would be a canary - You don't need to really do anything for them, but they just want you in the room.

I think this would be a great book to share with anyone! It is written in such a way that I think it could impact young adults as well as senior citizens. The lessons he teaches transcend any age. They are mainly based on not being so wrapped up in yourself, but just to take the time and effort to notice those around you. When you do, you will see how it changes your perspective.

“Most people think it takes a long time to change. It doesn’t. Change is immediate! Instantaneous! It may take a long time to decide to change . . . but change happens in a heartbeat!” (p 110)...more

The Noticer is an interesting book about a man named Jones. Jones is an older man who has a remarkable gift, the gift of perception. He is able to perceive things that most others are not able to see. He is a homeless drifter who has an uncanny ability to meet people in their most desperate of times. The author of the book, Andy Andrews, tells of when he was a homeless teenager living under a pier, with both parents dead and with no family or friends. One night, an old man named Jones finds himThe Noticer is an interesting book about a man named Jones. Jones is an older man who has a remarkable gift, the gift of perception. He is able to perceive things that most others are not able to see. He is a homeless drifter who has an uncanny ability to meet people in their most desperate of times. The author of the book, Andy Andrews, tells of when he was a homeless teenager living under a pier, with both parents dead and with no family or friends. One night, an old man named Jones finds him under the pier and gives him the best talk of his life, one that encourages Andy to live life to the fullest.

The book also goes through several accounts of the members of a town that were at one point in a desperate state of mind. They were suddenly met by Jones, who offered simply a bit of perspective, changing their lives forever.

The Noticer is a very touching book that encourages everyone to plant seeds in the people around them. It is important to remember that everyone has a purpose in life, and we are all here for a reason. I recommend this book to everyone who is looking for just a little perspective in life. ...more

Andy Andrews, author of The Traveler’s Gift, has created another beautiful and challenging story. The Noticer is the story of a town that becomes influenced and changed by the wisdom of an older man named Jones. Jones is a drifter with perspective, a person who can offer insight to those around him and influence them for the better. Whether it’s a down and out homeless man living under a bridge, or a suburban couple on the brink of divorce, Jones enables them to look at their circumstances fromAndy Andrews, author of The Traveler’s Gift, has created another beautiful and challenging story. The Noticer is the story of a town that becomes influenced and changed by the wisdom of an older man named Jones. Jones is a drifter with perspective, a person who can offer insight to those around him and influence them for the better. Whether it’s a down and out homeless man living under a bridge, or a suburban couple on the brink of divorce, Jones enables them to look at their circumstances from a different angle.

I read this book in one night. I literally couldn’t put it down. The Noticer challenged me, inspired me and spoke to my heart in a way that was refreshing and hopeful. It’s one of those special books that rip at your gut and make you a better person for reading it.The Noticer covers issues we all deal with in some fashion. It is a thought-provoking, special read.

At the back of the book there is a reader’s guide with discussion questions to accompany each chapter. Beyond that, there is a project associated with the book that can only produce good results. At http://www.thenoticerproject.com/ you can view project information and participate in the project by “noticing” the people in your life your life who have encouraged you or made you a better person.

We all have a Jones in our lives who says the right words at the right times and points us in the direction we need to go. These special people inspire us and open our eyes to our full potential. Without them our lives would have taken a turn for the worst. They are miracles and we owe them our gratitude.

The Noticer is a lesson in perspective, but it’s also a lesson in gratitude. It teaches people to notice the value of those around them and praise them for their impact on our lives. If we all lived with this mindset our world would be so wonderful.

I highly recommend this book. Be sure to check out The Noticer Project too.

Book title: The NoticerAuthor: Andy AndrewsNashville, Thomas Nelson, 2009 Number of pages: including reader’s guide, 167

Your current situation is not the problem. The problem is that you need perspective. Jones, Andy Andrews’ main character has a gift of making unique observations about people and then helping them make the adjustments necessary to get back on track. For the man fearful about his impending death, he needed to learn that the best was yet to come. For the man so driven to succeedBook title: The NoticerAuthor: Andy AndrewsNashville, Thomas Nelson, 2009 Number of pages: including reader’s guide, 167

Your current situation is not the problem. The problem is that you need perspective. Jones, Andy Andrews’ main character has a gift of making unique observations about people and then helping them make the adjustments necessary to get back on track. For the man fearful about his impending death, he needed to learn that the best was yet to come. For the man so driven to succeed that he abused everyone in his life, he needed to know that his death was right around the corner. Giving people a new perspective was Jones gift to them. He helped them make healthy, hopeful changes.

Everybody in the Gulf Coast town the story was set in had something to say about Jones. Jones always showed up at the most unexpected but most necessary times. He met people at the cross roads in their lives. He helped them pick the path they needed to go down. Not the easy path, but the most essential one.

The way Andrews brought Jones to life is intriguing. I couldn’t wait to read the sage words Jones would dispense to his listeners. He’s a humble teacher. He knows he’s been given truth as a tool to turn lives around and he gives his gift away generously and tirelessly.

Where you are is where you need to be. This is the place you will be most receptive and teachable; most willing to implement the changes that will bring effective change.

Jones is a compelling character. The people he talks to are believable. They’re you’re neighbors, your coworkers, and you go to church with them. If they make the changes Jones advises, life will be so much better. But the changes that are so obvious to the outside observer elude the person so tangled in his own circumstances. But a little perspective goes a long way.

Andrews introduces the reader to a series of people just like the people you know. Just like you. Some people need a little work. Some people need a lot.

This book emphasizes productive and fruitful interaction between people. It’s from your relationships with people that opportunities and encouragement come. People have to want to be around you in order for opportunity and encouragement to come your way. Will you make the changes that need to be made?

Those who enjoyed The Shack or the Dream Giver will enjoy this book. Self improvement and business books that handle many of same topics abound. But Andrews’ narrative style gets the message across without preaching. I can’t wait to give this book away because I know it will be enjoyed.

I got this book as a birthday gifr from one of my best friends and I thought that it was going to be a good one. I could only read like one fourth of the book when I got really bored and annoyed by all the nonsense it was written. I really cannot understand this thing - a lot of such books go all over the stores and suddenly they are on all "necessarily to read ' books. One man giving so "deep and profound" advices to people who currently have lost the idea of living. I don't even rate negativeI got this book as a birthday gifr from one of my best friends and I thought that it was going to be a good one. I could only read like one fourth of the book when I got really bored and annoyed by all the nonsense it was written. I really cannot understand this thing - a lot of such books go all over the stores and suddenly they are on all "necessarily to read ' books. One man giving so "deep and profound" advices to people who currently have lost the idea of living. I don't even rate negative but I just couldn't resist on this one. I especially don't like the idea of one person who feels so amazingly wise and comfortable with saying such sublime words and the rest of the book is all "thank you , thank you, saved my life for sure'. I think that anyone who is being respectful to himself won't let getting so down and going through such emotional discomfort. I kind of felt that the whole plot is one big cliche and everything else seemed so fake to me. I am sorry if I am irritating someone , but that's just my opinion of the book. I don't judge anyone but comments are also to be negative, too :)) ...more

I read this as part of the Thomas Nelson review bloggers, and got an advance copy. I have never read any of Andy Andrews’ books before. I LOVED this book! I read quite a few books, but this book was simple and hit me right to the core.Jones introduces himself saying he is a noticer. He says, “I notice things that people overlook. And you know, most of them are in plain sight.” He goes on throughout the whole book with words of wisdom to everyone he encounters.Jones was someone I felt like couldI read this as part of the Thomas Nelson review bloggers, and got an advance copy. I have never read any of Andy Andrews’ books before. I LOVED this book! I read quite a few books, but this book was simple and hit me right to the core.Jones introduces himself saying he is a noticer. He says, “I notice things that people overlook. And you know, most of them are in plain sight.” He goes on throughout the whole book with words of wisdom to everyone he encounters.Jones was someone I felt like could be my true friend. I loved how he just randomly showed up in a person’s life, but had been “watching people” for some time. I loved that no matter the stage in that person’s life, he helped them, not be “telling” them but “showing” them who he or she could be. I especially loved Jones’ theme about how sometimes in life all we need is perspective.I also liked the chapter where Jones speaks to the married couple, in Chapter 2, about the dialects we can show to our spouses in marriage (or in any other relationship). I had read something similar in another book, but once again realized how important it is to communicate with people in the dialect that person speaks.At the end of the book, I especially loved the “eulogy” that everyone in town gives to Jones. It appears he has touched so many lives just by something so simple. This book also made me realize just, once again, how big of an impact one person can have on a life. It made me want to become a noticer just like Jones. I appreciate so much the opportunity to read this book and this is a book I would rate 5 stars, and read over and over again. There aren’t too many books like that on my bookshelf!...more

Jones is an interesting character. He seems to appear when you need him the most. He had a unique way of looking at things. He helps those around him with nuggets of wisdom, helping them to find a new perspective on their current situation. Andy met him when he was living under the pier as a young boy. No one knows where he comes from or where he goes.

I just love the way Andy tells stories. This is the story about how changing the way you look at things can change your life. The wisdom shared inJones is an interesting character. He seems to appear when you need him the most. He had a unique way of looking at things. He helps those around him with nuggets of wisdom, helping them to find a new perspective on their current situation. Andy met him when he was living under the pier as a young boy. No one knows where he comes from or where he goes.

I just love the way Andy tells stories. This is the story about how changing the way you look at things can change your life. The wisdom shared in these pages is great. The best nugget of the whole book was that their are 4 basic ways to describe the way people receive and show love. It helped me understand myself better and is a great tool to help with determining how to communicate with those around you better.

Jones is a man that everyone would wish to meet. After reading the book, you realize that we ALL have the power to be like Jones. All we need is a little perspective, looking at things a little differently. Jones seems to show up when people need him the most, yet where does he come from? He just walks around with a briefcase, showing up when people feel that they have reached the end. His words of wisdom, his recommendations provide hope in a bleak world. I wish to be like Jones and so will youJones is a man that everyone would wish to meet. After reading the book, you realize that we ALL have the power to be like Jones. All we need is a little perspective, looking at things a little differently. Jones seems to show up when people need him the most, yet where does he come from? He just walks around with a briefcase, showing up when people feel that they have reached the end. His words of wisdom, his recommendations provide hope in a bleak world. I wish to be like Jones and so will you after reading this book of wisdom....more

If you’re looking for a small dose of timeless wisdom loosely fashioned into a story, you might enjoy The Noticer by Andy Andrews. In this book, a mysterious white-haired man named simply Jones appears to folks in a small town when they face crises, helps them gain perspective on their problems, then disappears. I like that Andrews weaves applications of wisdom into people’s lives in real-life situations, like employer-employee relations, dehumanization of workers, marital disconnects and despaiIf you’re looking for a small dose of timeless wisdom loosely fashioned into a story, you might enjoy The Noticer by Andy Andrews. In this book, a mysterious white-haired man named simply Jones appears to folks in a small town when they face crises, helps them gain perspective on their problems, then disappears. I like that Andrews weaves applications of wisdom into people’s lives in real-life situations, like employer-employee relations, dehumanization of workers, marital disconnects and despair, young-adult hopelessness and confusion. Almost any reader would recognize similar dilemmas in his or her world. And I like that Andrews puts himself into some of the book’s stories as one of Jones’ “helpees.”

I like that Jones calls himself a noticer. Early in the first story, he says, “I am a noticer … It is my gift. While others may be able to sing well or run fast, I notice things that other people overlook … about situations and people that produce perspective. That’s what most folks lack—perspective—a broader view. So I give them that broader view … and it allows them to regroup, take a breath, and begin their lives again.”

In some cases, the rejuvenating perspective comes from illuminating the universality of obstacles. In other cases, Jones shares the benefits of compassion and a long view of integrity. Sometimes he asks, What if you did this instead of that? Jones exemplifies Marcel Proust’s observation: The real voyage of discovery consists not in seeking new landscapes, but in having new eyes.

To enjoy The Noticer, please just roll with the hokey mysteries of Jones. No one knows who he is, where he’s from, what’s in the brown suitcase he always carries, or how he knows to show up at critical junctures in townspeople’s lives. Even if you believe in angels, Jones is a contrived character. I had to just accept Jones as a device Andrews uses to make his points. I also had to overlook parts that felt preachy. My not getting attached to any character in any story, as I might in a novel, made for a little boredom, too.

If you hang in to the end, however, you will be rewarded with a Reader’s Guide to help you apply new perspectives to your own life. Questions on each chapter and questions for personal reflection are insightful. Even if you humbly reflect and act on only a few of these questions, you will be a changed person....more

I guess I enjoyed this book. It was a page-turner and I did want to keep reading the next chapter. But The Noticer by Andy Andrews did have me puzzled. My library listed this book as nonfiction but the blurb on the back says it is a "unique blend of fiction, allegory, and inspiration." I felt duped a bit because to me this book was like a motivational speaker written with a good story around it.But there were good points in the book. There was a good discussion on whether when choosing a mate, I guess I enjoyed this book. It was a page-turner and I did want to keep reading the next chapter. But The Noticer by Andy Andrews did have me puzzled. My library listed this book as nonfiction but the blurb on the back says it is a "unique blend of fiction, allegory, and inspiration." I felt duped a bit because to me this book was like a motivational speaker written with a good story around it.But there were good points in the book. There was a good discussion on whether when choosing a mate, a "spark" is important. And I thought it was interesting when Andrews spoke of four dialects to convey love. He said they are: spoken words of approval, favors and deeds, physical contact and love expressed in quality time. One little side note- While I was carrying this book around, I had many people look at the cover and read a little about the book and say that this book looks like something they would be interested in. Many more people said this on this book than the other books I carry around. I guess a lot of people want a new perspective. ...more

“If one makes a mistake, then an apology is usually sufficient to get things back on an even keel. However-and this is a big ‘however’- most people do not ever know why their apology did not seem to have any effect. It is simply that they did not make a mistake; they made a choice…and never understood the difference between the two.”
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“Most people think it takes a long time to change. It doesn’t. Change is immediate! Instantaneous! It may take a long time to decide to change…but change happens in a heartbeat!”
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